BC Talks Aging — Module VII: Biological Pathways
Despite decades of scientific investigation, we still have a limited understanding of the molecular-level changes that occur during aging. This module will provide an overview of the biological pathways that regulate lifespan, focusing on studies performed on the soil nematode, C. elegans. C. elegans is a valuable model organism for studying aging, due to its short lifespan and ease of genetic manipulation. Interestingly, C. elegans mutants harboring an inactivating mutation in the insulin receptor, DAF-2, demonstrate a two-fold increase in lifespan. The speaker will discuss the work of the Weerapana Research Group at Boston College, where proteomic studies are performed to identify protein activities that regulate lifespan in C. elegans. These studies aim to provide a deeper understanding of the molecular-level changes that occur during aging and provide potential therapeutic targets for age-related diseases, such as cancer and Alzheimers.
Hosted by Dr. Eranthie Weerapana, Associate Professor of Chemistry, Boston College
BC Talks Aging offers free access to a series of modules provided by established scholars at Boston College. The primary aim of the series is to provide learning opportunities for those who wish to gain knowledge and resources on the issues related to aging, including social workers, nurses, and other practitioners in the field as well as instructors, students, older adults and their families.
